• How did the historical gondola differ from the modern one?

For centuries, the gondola was not the open boat we see today. It was a "carriage on water," a private, mobile room designed for comfort, prestige, and, above all, secrecy. This was possible thanks to the Felze—the iconic cabin cover that turned a boat ride into an intimate experience.

• What was the role of the Felze in noble privacy?

The Felze was the ultimate symbol of Venetian privacy. While the patricians used modest versions for daily canal crossings, the most luxurious ones were draped in silk and velvet. In winter, they were even heated, allowing nobles to move through the city in total comfort.

• How did it become a sanctuary for romance?

The Felze was more than just a shelter; it was a sanctuary for romantic encounters and secret escapes. Behind its shutters, lovers could hide from the prying eyes of the city, making the gondola the most legendary setting for Venetian scandals.

• What was the "Mermaid" bathing gondola?

One of the most fascinating variations was the "Sirena" (The Mermaid). This special gondola was designed for ladies who wanted to bathe in the Basin of St. Mark. The Felze was open at the bottom and equipped with a submerged steel cage, allowing women to immerse themselves in the water while remaining completely hidden and safe.

• Why did the Felze disappear and where can you see it now?

 With the rise of modern tourism, the need for privacy was replaced by the desire to see and be seen. By the early 20th century, the Felze began to disappear. While there isn't a single "Gondola Museum" in Venice, the Gondola Gallery serves as a living library of this heritage. Here, you can admire a meticulously reconstructed Felze and see a sectioned gondola. Our 3D VR Experience allows you to sit inside a gondola and travel back through the centuries.

How can I experience the Gondola for myself? The gondola is a universe and the heart of traditions: it tells the story of Venice more than anything else. For this reason, our experts will lead you into this world, accompanying you to the pier to step aboard your gondola and enjoy your ride with dedicated explanations, then guiding you to discover the Gondola Gallery. Here you will find our specialized library, a sectioned gondola, and the VR Experience. We look forward to seeing you at our Gondola Experience™ - Venice Tours Hub, in Campo San Gallo (San Marco 1093/b), to begin this journey into the world of the gondola together.